Home Building Glossary

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

A

AFUE
Annual Fuel Efficiency Rating.  The measure of a furnace’s heating efficiency, a ratio of heat supplied to the house versus heat lost via chimney or exhaust.

 

Air Handler
The part of the climate control system that circulates air.

 

Anchor Bolt
A steel bolt that is imbedded in wet concrete or mortar of a house foundation, used to tie framed walls to the foundation for extra strength.

 

Architectural Shingle
A more expensive, thicker roofing shingle which creates a layered look.

 

B 

Baseboard
A type of interior trim, installed in the corner formed by wall and floor.

Batt Insulation
A type of house insulation that typically comes in rolls, installed between wall studs and ceiling and floor joists.

Berber
A type of level loop carpet, designed for enhanced durability.

Blackboard
A type of insulated wall sheathing, nailed to exterior side of framed walls.

Block-Fill Slab
A concrete slab house foundation which is formed by using concrete block, typically used to 
provide higher floor elevation.

Blueprint
A general term to describe paper reproductions of building plans.

Breaker Panel
A steel box installed between wall studs containing electrical circuit breakers.

 

(B continued next page)

 

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z